A recent study reveals the cosmetic potential of donkey milk, showcasing its ability to impede melanin synthesis and protect against skin barrier damage caused by UVB exposure. Conducted by a team of Japanese researchers, in vitro experiments demonstrated that donkey milk exhibited a robust inhibitory effect on melanin synthesis, tyrosinase activity, and related gene expressions.

The researchers suggest that donkey milk, recognized for its potential skin-whitening effect, could evolve as a safe depigmenting agent. The study also investigated the impact of donkey milk on UVB-induced skin barrier damage, revealing promising outcomes.

Experiments with mice indicated that donkey milk could enhance the thickness of the epidermis, providing a protective effect post-UVB exposure by fortifying the structure of keratinocytes and the epidermal thickness. The research suggests that donkey milk may play a crucial role in safeguarding keratinocytes against UVB injury.

Additionally, donkey milk was found to restore skin barrier function by up-regulating the expression of filaggrin, a vital component in the skin’s barrier function. These findings indicate that donkey milk may protect the skin from sunburn and tanning damage.

Applying a network pharmacology method, the study examined the interaction between donkey milk and UVB-induced skin injury. The analysis of the melanogenesis molecular target network predicted melanogenesis regulators in donkey milk.

The researchers concluded that these results underscore the potential use of donkey milk as a promising agent for anti-pigmentation and skin barrier protection applications. The increasing consumer demand for high-quality natural cosmetic materials further enhances the appeal of donkey milk in skincare cosmetics.

Historically renowned for its cosmetic benefits, donkey milk, similar to human milk in chemical components, has been used for centuries. Cleopatra, who purportedly bathed in donkey milk, is a famous historical figure associated with this practice. Previous research highlights donkey milk’s resemblance to human milk in cholesterols, fatty acids, vitamins, and amino acids. Notably, no allergic reactions to donkey milk have been reported. The study identified 16 amino acids in donkey milk, with glutamic acid, aspartic acid, leucine, lysine, valine, and arginine comprising over 66% of the total amino acids.